Though the Mayans never used the wheel, they did have the ball, and it is believed that they took great pleasure in playing various games. Their most famous ball game was called pok-ta-pok, and it was serious business. The ball was about the size of a kickball, and the game was played on a large field about the size of a basketball court.
Similar to basketball, the game’s object was to shoot the ball through a hoop mounted above the playing surface. Considering that players weren’t allowed to use their hands, though, scoring was quite rare and was considered a tremendous feat. Large numbers of villagers turned out to watch the games, which had great religious and ceremonial importance. Fans sang songs, acted boisterously, and even bet on who would win. The winners of the game were given a hero’s welcome, and a celebration was held in their honor. As legend has it, the losers were put to death.
Today, the open fields, beachfronts, and carved-away jungles of the Riviera Maya make a perfect backdrop for the more “civilized” ball game of golf. There are a dozen places to play within a short distance of the Riviera Maya, including courses in Cancún, Cozumel, and the town of Bacalar (south of the Riviera Maya). Some of the courses are par 3, but others are par 72 championship courses designed by some of the best golf architects in the business, including Jack Nicklaus, Robert Trent Jones Jr., and Robert Von Hagge.
Most of the courses have beautiful views of the ocean and the tropical jungle. Iguanas, colorful birds, and other animals are commonly seen. Most have multiple water and sand features, and a couple even have actual Mayan ruins next to the fairways.
Most courses have clubs for rent, and unless you’re a real pro or planning on playing multiple rounds, the loaners are normally sufficient. Balls can be expensive (and the loss ratio can be high), so it’s usually best to bring some of your own since they’re cheap back home and fairly easy to pack. The larger courses have full-service pro shops with name-brand equipment and apparel, club repair, and instruction.
Some of the courses operate with an all-inclusive concept, where the greens fee includes a cart, range balls, and all the food and drink you care to consume during your round. To keep the costs down, consider playing in the afternoon to take advantage of discounted twilight rates. Just make sure to bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water.
The Riviera Maya is becoming more of a golf destination each year. More than 15 courses are currently under construction or are in the design/approval/development stages. For information on all area golf courses, check with the Mexican Caribbean Golf Association.
A full description of all area courses is available in the Playa del Carmen & Riviera Maya guide book available online.
More:
Riviera Maya Hotels
Airport Transportation
Tours & Activities
Riviera Maya Guidebook
As if Mexico's beach resorts needed any more dubious publicity, Summit Entertainment, the Hollywood film studio that created The Twilight Saga, has announced plans to film an adventure movie set in the Cancun.
